Caltrans Proposes Seismic Retrofits Of 3 Sacramento-Area Bridges

Caltrans has proposed seismic retrofits to three bridges in the Sacramento region. Caltrans officials say the bridges are safe, but they do fall short of current requirements for their ability to withstand earthquakes.

The Mokelumne River Bridge over Interstate 5 north of Lodi, the North Sacramento Undercrossing Bridge on Highway 160, and the Paintersville drawbridge in Courtland would be part of one project.

Dennis Keaton is with Caltrans. He says the Paintersville Bridge work will require the ok from one branch of the military.

"We have to get approval on construction also with the U.S. Coast Guard because of the boating laws and regulations. At all three locations it looks like it's going to be one-way traffic control. So, we're gonna have to manage those times."

The bridges are next on Caltrans retrofit list, which is generally based on when they were built. The project must first go through the environmental review process and planning phase.

The cost for updates to the three bridges is expected to reach $38 million, with construction beginning in 2019.

Bob reports on all things northern California and Nevada. His coverage of police technology, local athletes, and the environment has won a regional Associated Press and several Edward R. Murrow awards. Read Full Bio